The attractiveness of our downtowns and villages is widely recognized as a key part of the state’s allure to visitors from around the globe. 

Not only will you find buildings, streets, and architecture of historical significance, but Vermont downtowns also provide the most unique of shopping and dining experiences. From the locally–owned retail businesses that have survived with a smile for a hundred and fifty years, to the fine dining restaurants serving food and wine as delicious as anywhere in the world, Vermont downtowns are the centers of our proud communities.

Shopping downtown is a vital part of life here. You can stroll the outdoor pedestrian mall of Church Street in Burlington or shop the locally-owned downtown stores in places like Montpelier, Brattleboro or Rutland.

Here is where you will find everything from top name designer fashions and sporting goods to the limited-run handiwork of a local artisan.  From the very latest in technology to timeless music and gifts, Vermont downtowns and the boutiques, outlets, galleries, and general stores that thrive within them are the quintessential places to find just what you need in a place that is surely unlike any other.

With help from the Vermont Downtown Program, established in 1994, aggressive revitalization efforts are now in place in all of the state’s major downtowns (see list below). Building on each community’s history and historic buildings, these local efforts have demonstrated how revitalization of their communities builds the local economy and cultural institutions, while supporting growth in a way that minimize environmental impacts. 

In recognition of Vermont's efforts to preserve downtowns the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in London chose Vermont’s downtowns, and the Vermont Downtown Program, as one of only three finalists in the Destination Award category in the 2007 Tourism for Tomorrow Award.

The WTTC designation recognizes that these places incorporate social, cultural, environmental and economic assets into the tourist experience, and work with a wide variety of stakeholders.

Beginning in 1998 the state has given special recognition to 22 downtowns: Barre, Bellows Falls, Bennington, Bradford, Brandon, Brattleboro, Bristol, Burlington, Middlebury, Montpelier, Morrisville, Newport, Poultney, Randolph, Rutland, Springfield, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, Vergennes, Waterbury, Windsor, Winooski and White River Jct.

Find out more about the Vermont Downtown Program or locate the designated cities on our downloadable state map (PDF, 279k).